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Entered according to act of Congre.'g, in the year 1893, by Julia Iv. Henning, 
in the office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington. 



RICHMOND, VA, 1893. ^ ^Zc^ ^j.jyj 



Geography of Virginia. 



MAP QUESTIONS. 

1. Trace the outline of Virginia cm the map, and tell what object it 
resembles in shape. \ 

2. Bound Virginia. 

3. What river separates Virginia from Maryland V 

4. What four mountain ranges lie on the boundary? 

5. Into how many counties is the state divided ? 

6. Name the largest {Rochui&'hcun)- What is its principal 
town? {Harrisoiihurg). 

7. Name the smallest county {^/^le.V.)- What important city is situ- 
ated in this Co.? {AlexciJi dria). 

8. What two counties lie east of Chesapeake Bay? 

9. What name is often given to this part of the state ? ( TJie 

''Eastern Shore.") 

10. Name the most northerly county. What is its chief town ? 
( Winchester). 

11. What is the most easterly count}' ? The most westerly ? 

12. Which border Chesapeake Bay on the west ? 

13. Which lie on the Potomac ? 

14. Which touch North Carolina ? West Virginia ? Tennessee ? 
Kentucky ? 

15. Point out the county in which you live, and bound it. 
IG. Name its chief city or town. Its farm products. 

17 What streams drain it ? 

18. What ranges of mountains cross Virginia. 

19. In what counties are Ba.lsa.Tn Mt.i White Top: Elliotts 
Knob; Peaks of Otter; Luraij Cave: JWitaral Bridge; 
jy'atural Twnnelf 

20. Name the mineral springs of Bath Co.; of Rockingham Co. 



2 CEOdRAPHY OF VIKGINIA. 

21. Wliat rivers of Virginia empty into Chesapeake Bay, and in what 
general diiection do they flow V 

22. Desc-ribe the James, the most, important river of Va. 

28. Name its /Yz; £3 principal branches (C., A^., R., C. App.) 

24. What rivers form the Roanoke ? The York "? The RajDpahannock? 

25. Describe the Shenandoah river. 

26. What three branches of the Tennessee R. rise in the southwest- 
ern fiart of the state? 

27. Where is Lake Drummond ? 

28. What small mountain-lake is in Giles Co. V 

29. Where is Old Point Comfort V 

20. Describe Hampton Roads. AVhat i.s it? 

31. What two capes at the entrance of Chesapeake Bay ? 

32. Locate the Dismal Swamp. 

33. What health resort on the coast of Princess Anne Co. ? 

34. Name and locate the capital of the State. 

35. Name two seaport cities, and tell w^here they are. 
3G. What town is situated at the head of York Rivea- V 

<J8. Where is Mt. Vernon, the residence and burial-place of Washing- 
ton? 

37. In what county were George II 'ashingtou and Eobt. E. 
Lee born ? 

39. Where is Red Hill, the home of Patrick Henry ? ( Charlotte 

Co-) 

40. In what county is Montpelier, once the home of James Madison ? 

{Orange Co.) 

41. Point out Monticello, the residence of Thos. Jefferson. 

42. Where is Charlottesville, the seat of the University of Va. ? 

43. Locate Farmville; Roanoke; Lynchburg; Petersburg; Newport 
News; Fredericksburg; Gordonsville; Lexington; Staunton; James- 
town; Danville; Manchester. 

44. Name the j)rincipal railroads of Va. 

45. Over what lines and through what towns would you pass in go- 
ing from Richmond to Washington? From Richmond to Staunton? 
From Norfolk to Washington ? 

46. On what waters would you sail in going from Richmond to Balti- 
more? From Richmond to Washington ? From Norfolk to Washing- 
ton? 



VIRGINIA. 

Lat.-36°3i; to 39°S7' N. | Area.-42,450 square miles. 

Long.— 75°13' to 83°37' W. [ Population (1890),— 1,655,980. 



GEOGRAPHY OF VIRGIXIA. 3 

SITUATION— SIZE. 

Virginia lies on the eastern coast of the United States, midway be- 
tween Maine and Florida, and is the most southern of the Middle At- 
lantic group of States. If a line were drawn through Virginia, and 
extended around the earth from east to west, it would pass through 

Chinci, Asiatic Turkey, Greece, and the southern part of 

/Spain — showing that these countries are in the same latitude as 
Virginia; that is, they are the same distance from the equator. Vir- 
ginia is surrounded on all sides, excei)t the extreme east, by the states 
of North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Marlyand. 
The Atlantic Ocean washes the eastern coast for a distance of J^O 

miles. 

The southern hounclary-line, separating Virginia from North 
Carolina and Tennessee, is J^Jj^Q niiles long. The greatest 
length of the Sta,te, from Accomac Co. (on the xitlantic) to Lee Co. 

(in the southwest corner), is ^^^ miles. Its greatest iviclth 

from north to south is IQ^ miles. The boundary line of the entire 

state in 1^00 miles long. 

The territory of Virginia measures 42,450 square miles, 2,325 square 
miles being water. A square mile is equal to a square which is a mile 
long and a mile wide. It would take 42,450 squares of this size to 
cover the whole surface of Virginia. 

The state contains twenty-five and one-half million acres of land, 
about one-thii'd of which is cultivated. 

Virginia ranks twenty-nintli among the states of the Union in 
size; in ^oi^nl-Ation, fifteenth. 

Questions: — Where does Va. lieV To what group of states dees it 
belong? What countries are in the same latitude as Va. ? WlAt states 
surround it? (Point out these on the map.) How long is the Atlantic 
coast line? What is Virginia's greatest length? Its greatest width? 
What is the length of the entire boundary line ? How many square 
miles of surface has Virginia ? How much is water ? What is a square 
mile? How many acres of land in the state? How much is cultivated? 
How does Va. rank among the states in size ? In population? 



MOUNTAINS AND NATURAL WONDERS. 

The Mountain Ranges of Virginia belong to the Appalachian 
System. They are the Blue Ridge, the great North or Shenandoah 
Mtp., the Alleghauies, and the Cumberland Mts. The highest peaks 



4 ' (lEOGKAPHY OF VIKGINIA. 

are Balsam ML, (Grayson Co.); White Top, (Grayson Co.); Elliotts 
Knob, (Augusta Co.): Peaks of Otter (Bedford Co.). The mountain 
scenery of Virginia is grand and beautiful beyond description. The 
o-reatest natural wonder in the state is the JVafura/ Bridge, over 
Cedar Creek, iu Rockbridge county. The "brid'ge'" is a huge mass .of 
rock spanning the bed of the creek at a height of 215 feet. A wagon- 
road leads over the top, which is so wide that one might cross it with- 
out noticing any difference between it and the surrounding country. 
Within a short distance of the Bridge is the Iscihella, StcUrivay , 
a natural underground flight of stone steps. The staircase begins 
in a beautiful cavern, and winds upward under numerous arches for a 
distance of 400 or 500 feet, opening at last to the sky. This is, perhaps, 
the only natural underground gtone stairway ever discovered. 

The J\ (itura I TuJinel. ^^ Scott Co., is somewhat like the Natural 
Bridge — being longer, though not so high. Through it runs a branch 
of the Clinch river. 

Other places of interest are JjUTdy Cdve, i^ Bage county, and 
Wei/er's Cave and the ''Chimneys," both in Augusta Co. 
The "Chimneys" are rOCky columns "^^ to 80 feet high. 

Questions. — To what system do the mountain ranges of Virginia be- 
long? Name the ranges. Name the highest peaks in the state? What 
can you say of Virginia's mountain scenery? What is the greatest 
natural wonder in the state? Where is it? Describe it? Describe the 
Isabella Stairway. How long is it? Describe the Natural 
Tunnel, in Scott county. Name other interesting places in Virginia. 
What are the "Chimneys," and where are they? 



RIVERS. 

Few countries are as well watered as the state of Virginia. Its rivers 
belong- to two great systems. Those that floAv down the eastex'n slope 
of the mountains and find their way to the Atlantic ocean belong to the 
Atlantic System. 

The rivers that flow westward and emjity into the Ohio belong to the 
Ohio System. 

Tha principal Atlantic rivers are the Potomac, Shenandoah, Eap2:)a- 
hannock, York, Chowan, James, and Roanoke. The last two extend 
their course into North Carolina, and reach the ocean by way of Albe- 
marle Sound. 

The Roanoke River, in the beginning of its course, bears tlie name 



GEOGRAPHY OF VIRGINIA. 5 

Roanoke. Farther east, it is called the St aunt 071 ; but, oa unit- 
ing with the Dau River, it takes again its old name, Roanoke, and flows 
through North Carolina to Albemarle Sound. The James River, 
crossing the state from west to east, divides the state into two parts. 
.N'ortJiside Virginia is the name given to the land north of the 
river, while that on the south is called Southside Virginia. 

The branches of the OMo River that are in Virginia are the New, 
Big Sandy, and Tennessee. The Virginia branches of the Tennessee 
are the Holston, the Clinch, and Powells Rivers. These rivers, with 
hundreds of smaller streams, drain and water the land, afford the 
best water-power for manufacturing, and furnish excellent means 
of transportation (carrying things from place to place). 

Questions — To what two systems do the rivers of Va. belong ? What 
rivers belong to the Atlantic System ? To the Ohio ? Name the Atlantic 
rivers. What are the different names of the Roanoke ? How is the 
state divided by the James? Name the rivers of the Ohio System that 
are in Virginia. What branches of the Tennessee are in the state ? 
Give four uses of the Virginia rivers. 



CLIMATE. 

The climate of Virginia varies m different j^arts of the State, on ac- 
count of the difference in surface. The lowlands of the east ai"e 
warm, while the more elevated western sections are cool. The 
mountainous regions are particularly healthful. Afton, in the Blue 
Ridge, is noted for having the dryest mountain air of any known place. 

The distribution of rain, the light snows, and the short, mild win- 
ters are highly favorable to a^ricalture (tilling the soil), which is 
the chief occupation of Virginia, More than half the laboring people 
of the state are engaged in farming. 

Questions — Is the climate of Virginia alike in all parts of the state ? 
Why does it vary ? Where is it warm, and where cool '? What part of 
the state is particularly healthy ? What things are favorable to agi-i- 
culture in Va. ? What is agriculture ? What is the chief occupation in 
Va. ? How many of the jDeople are farmers ? 



6 GEOGRAPHY OF VIRGINIA. 

SOIL AND PRODUCTIONS. 

The soils of Yirginia are rich and suited to all kinds of crops, the 
staple products being com, oats, wheat, and tohacco. The 
finest tobacco in the United States is raised in Middle Vir&'inia 
and Pledinoilt . Coarser grades are produced in the sections west 
of Piedmont. 

Cotton is cultivated south of the James. 

Grains are raised in all parts of the state, the largest crops being 
those of the Great Valley. Fine hay is made in Ftedmont 
aiicl the Valley, and excellent ivine in Tidewater and Pied- 
mont. 

other farm products are butter, cheese, honey, and maple-suo-ar- 
Wild fruits abound— cherries, plums, grapes, crab-ajDples, persimmons, 
berries of all kinds, &c. These are dried and caniaed in large quanti- 
ties. Many plants furnish useful dyes and niedicines. Beautiful 
wild flowers spring up everywhere, converting the whole country into 
one vast garden of bloom and fragrance. 

The forests of Virginia yield valuable tirnher. Here we find the 
yellow pine, cedar, cypress, locust, gum, juniper, mulberry, oak, maple, 
birch, &c. Three other important forest productions are oah-bark 
(used in tanning and dyeing), charcoal, and sumac leaves. 

Questions. — To what kind of crops are the rich Virginia soils suited? 
Name the chief products. Where is the finest tobacco raised ? What 
sections produce the coarser grades? Where is cotton cultivated? 
Where are the grains produced, and what is the chief grain section? 
Where is fine hay made ? ^Vine ? Name other farm products. Give 
names of some of the fruits that grow wild. How are these jDiepared 
for use ? ^Vhat are made from many plants ? For what are the for- 
ests valuable chiefly? Name the principal forest trees. Name three 
other forest products. For what is oak-bark used ? 



BIRDS AND WILD ANIMALS. 

Along the coast and among the mountains are found the black bear, 
the deer, lynx, and wild-cat. 

The fur-bearing animals are the otter, beaver, and mink. Foxes» 
raccoons, hares, squirrels, and opossums are seen in all parts of the 
state. 

The poisonous serpents are the rattle-snake, copperhead, and mocca- 
■in. 



GEOGRAPHY OF VIRGINIA. 7 

The " game birds " of Tidewater are swans, geese, canvas- 
bachduchs, teal, brant, ^c. 

Tarkeys, pheasants, and partridegs abound in the in- 
land counties. 

In addition to these, numerous song-birds throng the fields and 
woods, and fill the air with sweetest melody. Chief among these is the 
mocking-bird, so named because in its singing it imitates, or •' mocks," 
all other birds, besides giving voice to its own natural, delightful 
tones. 

Questions— Name four wild animals of Va. Which are the fur-bear- 
ing animals ? What wild animals are found in all parts of the state ? 
Name the poisonous serpents, What are the game-birds of Tidewater ? 
Of the inland counties ? 



MINERALS. 

Virginia is richer in minerals than any other land of its size, and is 
first among the stateg in the variety and beauty of its building-stones. 
There is every reason why mining should become one of the most im- 
portant industries of the state. 

The principal metals are gold, silver, iron, copper, lead, zinc, plumbago, 
cinnabar, cobalt, tin and manganese. 

Granite of finest quality, brownstone, and sandstone are the princi- 
pal building-stones. 

Other minerals found in the state are marble, salt, coal, mica, ochre, 
asbestos, whetstone, soapstone, emery, white glass sand, kaolin, (tine 
white clay, from which china-ware is made), brick and fire clays, roof- 
ing-slates, g3'psum, marl, greensand, &c. 

Jronoccnrs in every part of the state except Tidewater, while 
the first successful iron furnaces in America were established in Middle 
Virginia. The largest deposits of coal ^^^ "^t^ Middle Virginia 
and Appalachia. 

Great quantities of salt are produced in the Qj'eat Vallei/ ^^ 
Washington and Smyth counties. It is obtained by heating brine, which 
is raised from underground by means of artesian wells that penetrate 
a solid bed of I'ock-salt. 

Lead occurs in many parts of the Great Valley, the richest 
mines being those of Wythe Co. 

The fertilizing minerals (used for fertilizing the soil) are found 
chiefly in Tidewater. They are gypsum, marl, and greensaud. 



S GEOGRAPHY OF VIRGINIA. 

Mineral Springs abound in Virginia. The waters of these springs 
ai-e used by many persons, instead of medicines, and are considered 
very healthful. The most noted are the Hot, Warm, and Heahng 
Springs of Bath Co.; the Rockbridge Alum, Rockbridge Baths, and 
Cold Sulphur, of Rockbridge Co.; the Rawley Springs, of Rockingham 
Co. ; the Alleghany Springs, of Montgomery Co. 

Questions — What can you say of the mineral wealth of Virginia ? 
Name the chief minerals. What are the principal building-stones? 
Name other minerals. What is kaolin? Where does iron occur? Where 
were the first successful iron furnaces in America? Where are the 
largest deposits of coal ? What section and what counties produce 
large quantities of salt? How is it obtained? What section yields 
lead? In what county are the richest lead mines? W^here are the fer- 
tilizing minerals chiefly found ? Name them. Name some of the most 
noted mineral springs of Virginia. For what are the waters of these 
springs useful ? 



INDUSTRIES. 

We have seen that agricuUltre (farming) is the chief industry of 
Virginia. Manufacturing and commerce are, however, large- 
ly carried on— also, dairying, flashing, and stoclc-raising. 
The extensive grass lands of the state afford excellent grazing for cat- 
tle. Horses, mules, sheep, hogs, milch-cows, oxen, and other cattle, are 
raised in great numbers. 

In Virginia, the great quantity of j-aw material, the fine water- 
VOWer, and the convenient ways of transportation, are favorable 
to manufacturing. By "raw material" we mean materials from which 
articles of use are manufactured— as, raw COtton, before it is made 
into cloth ; iron before it is manufactured into stoves, &c. 

The principal manufactures are tohacco, flou?% iron, steel, 
cotton-goods, lumiber, and leather. 

Other important manufactures are carriages, railroad cars, liquors, 
machinery, clothing, boots and shoes, farming tools, &c. 

The fine siiuaMon of Virginia (in the middle of the Atlantic coast), 

her excellent harbors, her rivers, railroads, and canals, are 
great aids to the commerce of the state. Two ship canals — the "Albe- 
marle and Chesapeake" and the "Dismal Swamp Canal" — greatly in- 
crease the trade in the eastern part of the state. 



GEOGRAPHY OF VIKGiNIA. 9 

Norfolk and Portsmouth are the chief sliipping--ports. The principal 

exports are cottoTi, HouT , tobacco, lumber, oysters, and 

early vegetables- Va. flour is shipped in large quantities to 
southern countries, because it is not affected by the heat. 

Questions — What is the chief industry of Va. ? Name five impor- 
tant occupations. What makes Va. a good place for stock-i-aising ? 
Name the live stock of Va. What three things are favorable to manu- 
factures? Name others. What five things help the commerce of the 
state ? Name two important canals in the eastern part. What 
are the chief shipping-ports of Va. ? Name- the principal exports. 
What is largely shipped to southern countries? Why? 



RAILROADS. 

The most important railroads of Virginia are ^he Richmond, Freder- 
icksburg, and Potomac; the Richmond and Alleghany; the Richmond 
and Petersburg; the Richmond and Danville; Virginia Midland; 
Norfolk and Western; and the Chesapeake and Ohio. On the Ches. 
and Ohio R. R., at Greenwood Depot, near Afton, is the oldest tail- 

jiel in the world. 

Questions — Name the principal railroads of Va. — Point them out on 
the map. 



SURFACE AND NATURAL DIVISIONS. 

The surface of Virginia shows six natural divisions that cross the 
state from northeast to southwest, and ditfer in sarfaA'e clilliaAe 
soil, ^^^prodlictioJlS. The land along the coast is a low plain, 
level with the ocean; but as we go westward it rises gradually, like a 
stairway, ending in ranges of high mountains in the western j^art 
of the state. These divisions, named in regular order from east to 
west, are Tidewater Virginia, Middle Virginia, Piedmont, Blue Ridge, 
Great Valley and Appalachia. * 

Questions — Into how many sections (divisions) is Va. divided ? In 
what direction do they extend ? How do they, differ? Describe the 
surface of Va. as we go from east to west. Name the six divisions in 
regular order. 

* By law the state is agriculturally divided into three sections — Tidewater, 
Middle Virginia and the Great Valley. 



10 GEOGRAPHY OF VIRGINIA. 

TIDEWATER. 

Tidewater is the name given to the eastern and southeastern part 
of Virginia, and comprises about one-fourth of the state. It extends 
one hundred miles back from the ocean, and is nearrly as large as the 
whole state of Maryland. Its surface consists of loivlands, with 
marshy places along the coast. The western boundary of Tidewater 
is marked by a ridge of hills about 150 feet high. The rivers falling- 
over the hills make excellent water-power, vt^hich assists greatly 
in manufactui-ing. On tbis account, the most important manufacturing 
cities of the state are situated along this line of hills between Tide- 
water and Middle Va. The eastern part of Tidewater is divided by 
Chesapeake Bay, which is 200 miles long and from 4 to 40 miles wide. 
For 70 miles of its length it lies altogether within the limits of Virginia, 
the rest of it being in Maryland. It drains parts of Maryland, Virginia, 
West Virginia, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. It is navigable to its head 
for large vessels, and Ijas many good harbors. Hampton Eoads, at 
the mouth of James river, is one of the finest harbors in the world. 

The bay is noted, also, for its ^ne fish and Oljsters, and is con- 
sidered "the greatest oyster-bed in the world." From its waters mil- 
lions of bushels of oysters are taken yearly, and are shipped chiefly to 
Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York. Lohsfers, Crabs, and 
terrOljillyS also, abound. More than thirty l^inds of food-fishes 
crowd the waters of Tidewater Virginia, and are caught in thousands — 
among them, mackerel, herring, shad, sturgeon, bass, and 
blue-jish. 

Old Point Comfort, on the bay, is a noted health resort. 
In this section is Dismal Swamp, a vast timber region covering 
a tract of SOO square miles. Its rich, wet soil produces a thick growth 

of cypress, ceda,r, juniper, and gum trees, from which large 
quantities of shingles, staves, railroad ties and ship lum- 
ber are made. 

Lake Drummond, the largest lake in Virginia, lies in the midst of 
Dismal Swamp. It is six miles in diameter, and is noted for the purity 
of its water, which will remain unchanged for years. 

The soil of Tidewater is a light, sandy loam, underlaid 

with clay. It I'as been somewhat injured by the wrong kind of 
cultivation, but can be fertilized by using gypsum and marl, {Loam 
is earth which can easily be crumbled to dust.) 

The chief productions are fruits and early vegetables, which 
are raised in "market-gardens" and shij)ped in large quantities to north- 
ern cities. This is called ''truching /'' and is the most imjaortant 
industry of Tidewater. The trade in strawberries, potatoes, 
and peanuts is especially large. MgS ^^^ pomegranates thrive 



GEOGRAPHY OF VIRGINIA. 11 

well in the open air. Excellent wijie is made from the Scuppernong 
grapes of this section. 

Thousands of game-birds— 5z:^Y)^7^5, geese, canvas-baclc 
ducks, teal, brant, SOra, ^c— crowd the inlets and marshes, 
and are caught in large numbers. 

To Tidevvater belong the fertilizing minerals, cfypsUDl Tiiaj'l 

and greensand- 

Questions — What part of the state is called Tidewater? How wide 
is it? How large? Describe its surface. What marks the western 
boundary of Tidewater ? How are these hills useful ? How is water- 
jDOwer useful ? Where are the chief manufacturing cities of the state 
situated? What large bay is in Tidewater ? How long and how wide 
is it ? How much of it lies in Va. ? What states are drained by it ? 
What is its principal harbor ? For what is the bay noted ? (Ans. — 
Good harbors, fine fish and oystex's.) Where are the oysters shipped? 
■A- CTllstaceon is an animal having a crust-like shell. Name three 
crustaceans of Chesapeake Bay. How many kinds of food-fishes in the 
waters of Tidewater? Name some. What noted health-resort on the 
bay ? What large swamp is in Tidewater? For what is it noted ? How 
large is it ? Describe its soil. What does it produce? What are made 
from the timber of its trees ? What lake in Dismal Swamja ? For what 
is it noted ? Describe the soil of Tidewater. How can it be fertilized ? 
What is loam ? What are the chief productions ? Name an important 
industry of Tidewater. What is "trucking"? What tropical fruits 
thrive in the open air? What is made from Scuppernong grapes? 
Name six game birds of Tidewater. What minerals are found in this 
section? 



MIDDLE VIRGINIA. 



Middle Virginia, beginning at the head of tidewater, is from 25 to 
100 miles wide. Its sWrface is broken by ridges of hills, with broad, 
fertile valleys between them. This we i^^'^ rolling land,' ^ on 
account of its wavy, or rolling, appearaace. 

The soil of Middle Va. is enriched by soJldstone I'ocks that 
are decomposed in the ground. It produces chiefly com, wlieat, 
and t oho ceo. This tobacco (called " Virginia Leaf ") is, like that of 
Piedmont, the finest raised in the United States. 

The deposits of iroi% ^"^^ soft coal iii Middle Va. are extensive 
and valuable. Qold is found in considerable quantities. 

Questions — Where does Middle Va. begin ? How wide is it ? De- 
scribe its surface. What IS "rolling land?" Describe the soil. Name 



12 GEOGKAPHY OF VIRGINIA. 

the chief productions. What is the tobacco of Middle Va. and Pied- 
mont called, and what can you say of it? "What" minerals are found in 
Middle Va? 



PIEDMONT. 

Piedmont, the next division to the west, extends in a southwesterly 
direction throughout the length of the state, and is only about 25 miles 
wide. The word " Piedmont " means " foot of the mountain," and this 
division is so called because it lies at the base, or " foot," of the Blue 
Ridge mountains. Its surface is varied by hills, llVOlUltaijl 
spurs, valleys and plains. Like Middle Va., it increases in 
height toward the west. 

The soil in Piedmont (reddish in color) is eni-iched by saJldstOTie , 
and wodnces grains, fr^iiits, grasses, and tobacco of the finest 
quality. The heavy crops of grasses afford fine pasturage for cattle, 
and excellent hay is made. 

Questions — What division lies west of Middle Va.? In what direction 
does it extend? How wide is it? Why is Piedmont so called? De- 
scribe its surface. What part of it is highest ? What is the soil? Name 
the productions. Give two uses of fine grasses. 



BLUE RIDGE. 

Towering on the western side of Piedmont is Blue Ridge, a range of 
mountains that appear blue in the distance. This section is from 3 miles 
wide in the north to 20 in the south, where it spreads out in a plateau, 
or table-land. Its mountains increase in height toward the southwest, 
the loftiest peak being Balsam Mt. (5700 ft.). The soil of Blue Ridge, 
like that of Middle Va. and Piedmont, is enriched by sandstone. 
It iproduces fruits, toll a ceo, grains ^^^^ grasses. The western 
slopes of the Blue Ridge are poor and unproductive. 

The principal minerals are copper and iron- 

Charcoal is made in large quantities in the forests of this section. 

Questions — Describe the surface of Blue Ridge. How wide is it? 
In what part are its mountains highest? Name the loftiest peak. 
Describe the soil. Name the chief productions. What part of the 
Blue Ridge is unproductive ? Give the principal minerals. What is 
made in the Blue Ridge forests ? 



GEOGKArilY OF VIRGINIA. 13 

GREAT VALLEY. 

Lying uetweeu the Blue l^idge and tUe Alleghauies is the Great 
Valley, a long tract of Tolluii^ country 2U miles wide. It is a 
part of the great Appalachian Yalley, that stretches from Canada to 
Alabama, an 1 is watered by five great rivers — the JcnilCS. StcfUll- 
ton, Tennessee, A^ew, '^^^ SJlCliandoall. These furnish ex- 
cellent n-ater-poicei'. ^^^ drain and irrigate (water) the land. 
The Yalley is so fertile that it has been called "the garden of 
America." Its soil is made rich hy lij}iestone, ^"^^ produces line 
<^ rains '^"^ o^j-asses — this being the greatest grain-i)roduciug sec- 
tion of the state, and an excellent place for stock'-raisili<^ . The 
liest of Jicnj is cured from its grasses. The Valley abounds in miner- 
als, the most important l)eing iron, COal, ie((d, ^ud salt. 

QuestioilS — "NMiere does the Great Valley lie V Describe its 'surface. 
How wide is it? Of what is it apart? What large rivers water the 
Valley? Name three uses of these rivers. A\'hy has the (neat Valley 
been called " the garden of America"? Describe its soil. Name tlie 
productions, and tell the chief one. Name on,e important occujiation 
of this section. AVhat is made from the rich grasses? (rive the prim-i- 
pal minerals. 



APPALACIHA. 

Appalachia, the most westerly division of Virginia, is a mountainous 
section crossed by ranges of the Alleghany System, which enclose long 
and narrow valleys. Most of the valleys arc fertile and well-watered. 
The soil is enriched by Uniestone ^^^^ yields heavy cro))s of Jinc 
rira SSes. Large numbers of cattle ^^^'® raised in this section. \\)- 
palachia is noted for the richness and variety of its minerals, coal 
and iron being the most important. Its forests are extensive, and 
produce great quantities of valuable timber. 

Questions— What is the most westerly division of Vij-ginia? De- 
scribe its surface. What can you say of its valleys? AVhat is the soil ? 
Name the chief production. Is it a good place for stock-raising ? If 
so, why is it? What can you say of the minerals of Appalachia? Of 
its forests? 



11 GEOGUAi'IIY OF VIRGINIA. 

EDUCATION. 

Virginia lias public free schools oi' tiic first rank. They arc sup- 
ported by taxation, and are controlled by a state Board of Education. 

Among the most noted colleges of the stale are AVilliam and Mary 
College, at "Williamsburg, next to the oldest college in the United 
States; the Universit}' of Virginia, at Charlottesville; the Washington 
and Lee University and the Virginia Militarj' Institute, at Lexington; 
the Female Normal School, at Farmville; Eaudolph-Macon College, at 
Ashland; Eichmoud College, at Richmond; Hanii^den Sidney, in Prince 
Edward county; Emory and Henry, in Washington county. There are, 
also, many excellent private schools and academies. 

Questions. — What can you say of the free schools of Virginia ? Name 
some of the colleges for higher learning? 



•GOVERNMENT. 

Virginia is divided into ten congressional districts, and is repre- 
sented in the national Congress at Washington by two Senators and ten 
Representatives — twelve in all. 

The chief officers of the state government area (lovernor, a Lieuten- 
ant Governor, and an Attorney-deneral, elected by the people every four 
years; a Secretary- of the Commonwealth, Treasurer, Aiiditor of Public 
Accounts, Second Auditor, Railroad Commissioner, Superintendent of 
Public Instruction, and a Commissioner of Agriculture. 

The laws of the state are made by the Legislature, which meets at 
Richmond every two years. It is composed of iO Senators, who are 
elected every four years, and IdO Delegates, who scv\c terms of two 
years. 

There arc a supreme court, circuit, county, and corjioration coiu-ls, 
presided over by judges who are aj)pointed by the Legislature. 

Questions. — Into how many congressional districts is Virginia di- 
vided? Ho Av many rei^resentatives has Virginia in Congress? Name 
the chief othcers in the state. How long is the Governor's term of of- 
fice? Where and when does* the Legislature meet? What is the Leg- 
islature? How many years do the Senators serve? Tho Delegates? 
Name the Virginia courts? AVho appoints the judges? 



CEOGRAPIIY OF VIRaiNIA. l,, 

HISTORY. 

Virgiuia, oi'toii called "the Old Dominion," was settled by people 
from England. The state was named in honor of the English queen 
Elizabeth, who was called "the ^'irglll Queen." The first permanent 
settlement was made at Jamestowilj on an island in James river, in 
1G09. For a long time, the people struggled hard to secure safe and 
l^eaceful homes. They were forced to contend with hostile Indians, 
hunger, sickness, and exposure, with frequent quarreling among them- 
selves. Had it not been for the eiforts of Capt. John Smith, they would 
all have perished. However, the little colony grew and prospered. 
Settlements were made in other places, and, in time, Virginia became a 
great and powerful state. Soon after the Revolutionary War, which 
freed the American people from tiie rule of the English, Virginia gave 
from her own territory the lands out of which were formed some of the 
most important states of the Union. Many of the noblest and most 
noted men of our country have been Virginians, including. seven presi 
dents of the United States (Washington, Jefferson, Madison, Monroe 
Harrison, Tyler, and Taylor). Among the famous names of later years 
are those of Gen. Robert E. Lee and Gen. "Stonewall" Jackson, 

Questions. — Wliat is Virginia often called ? By whom was the state 
settled? In whose honor was it named? Where was the first lasting 
settlement made ? Tell some of the trials of the new settlers. Who 
saved the people from perishing ? What became of the little colony ? 
What war freed the American pcoj^le from the rule of the English ? 
How did Virginia help in forming the states of the Union? How many 
presidents of the United States have been Virginians ? Name them. 
Name two famous Virginians of later ^-ears. 



CITIES. 

Virginia has fifteen cities, Richmond being the laroesi' and most im- 
portant. 

Richmond (pop. 81,3S8) was founded by Col. Wm. Byrd, in the year 
ll'iM, and became the capital of the state in 1779. It is situated in 
Henrico county, on the north bank of the James river, at the head of 
tidewater. The falls of the river afford fine water-power, making Rich- 
mond a most important manufacturing city. The chief manufactures 
are touacgo, floui;, ikon, MAcmxEitv and railuoad cars. Other manufac- 
tures are cotton goods, stoneware, furniture and bedding, farming 
tools, coaches, wagons, fertilizers, bricks, steam engines, bark and su- 
mac, saddlery and harness. Several important railroads and regular 



Hi OKOGRAPIIV OF YtRGINIA. 

lines of steameis coimect the city with all parts of tlie Union. Hence, 
i\iclimou(l is not only a great MANrFACTriuMi place but also an import- 
ant COMMERCIAL city. 

It lias many public buildings. The most interesting is the Capitol, 
stancling in the center of a beaiitiful park, or "square." INFany works of 
art (paintings, statuary, ite.,) grace the Capitol buikliug and the grounds 
which surround it. Other public buildings are the City Hall, Post- 
Office, State Libraiy, Govei-nor's ^Fansion, Chamber of Commerce 
]>uilding, City Jail, State Penitentiary, City Almshouse, Richmond C*ol- 
lege, Medical College, Sie. 

Richmond has many large and exjjensive public school buihlings, 
and hei- free schools rank among the l>est in the country. Hollywood 
is the most beautiful cemetery. 

Norfolk (pop. ;)4:,871) is next to the largest city in Virginia, and is iu 
Norfolk county, on the Elizabeth river, eight miles from Hampiou 
Roads. It is the principal seaport city of Virginia, and is the place to 
which goods are sent from a large portion of the South and SoutliM^esl, 
to be shipped to other countries. It is connected with inland places 
l)y RAiLKOADs, with })laces along the coast b}- canals, and with foreign 
countries by lines of stkameks. Its situation is very favorable to coii- 

MERCE. It exports COTTON, LIMIJER, OYSTERS, ERCrrs and EARLY VF.OETARLE^* 

and carries on a large trade in naval stores and groceries. 

Among the public buildings of Norfolk are the City Hall, ^Tasonic 
Temple, Court House and Custom House. 

Petersburg (pop. •J-2,(;(S0) is in Dinwiddle Co., on the Appomattox 
]{iver. '2'A miles south of Richmond. The falls in the river make good 
water-powe]', and the chief manufactures are toracco, FLorR, and iron. 
Cotton and tobacco are exported. This city exports more manufac- 
tured tobacco than any other city in the United States. 

Lynchburg (pop. l'.),7U9), in Campbell Co., on the south bank of the 
James River, is built on rising ground, in the midst of beautiful scenery. 
The water-power furnished by the river is of the finest, and tobacco, 
FLOiR, and IRON are manufactured. 

Roanoke (pop. 10,159) is situated in Roanoke Co., on the Roanoke 
Rivoi'. Its manufactures of iron are very important. 

Alexandria (pop. 11,339) is in Alexandria Co., on the Potomac River, 
seven miles beloAV Washington. It manufactures floi'r, jmachineuy, 
BRICKS, FERTILIZERS, and WOODEN-WARE, aud carrics on a large trade in coal. 
It is noted for its excellent schools. 

Portsmouth (pop. 13,2()8) is in Noj.folk Co., on the Elizabeth River, 



GEOGRAPHY OF Vll^GTNIA. IT 

opposite the city of Norfolk, witii Avliich it is connected by a ferry. At 
PortsTiioiith are a dry dock, a U. S. Navy-yard, and a Marine Hospital. 
The city ex2')oi-ts cottok, Lc:\rBER, and early vegktablks. 

Danville (pop. 10,:{05), in I'ittsylvania Co., on the Dan Puvov, is noted 
for its trade in touaoco. 

Manchester (pop. 9,2-i(;) is in Chesterfield Co., on James lliver, op- 
posite Iiichinond, Avith which it is connected hj several hridjijes. Tt 
manufactures touacco, cotton, pai'f.i;, vlotu, and inox. 

Staunton (pop. 0,975), in Augusta Co., is situated in the midst of a 
fertile and healthful region, and is surrounded by beautiful niountain 
scenery. It manufactures fi.otr, tobacco, and irox. 

Charlottesville (pop. 5,5!)1) is in Albemarle Co., on the liivanna 
lliver. It is the seat of the UNivEusrrv of Viroinia, one of the finest 
institutions of learning in America. 

Winchester (pop. 5,19G), in Frederick Co., has one of the largest bark 
and sumac mills in the country. Its manufactures arc considerable. 

Fredericksburg (pop. 4,528), in Spottsylvania Co., on the llappa- 
hannock Eiver, manufactures iron, flour, and paper. The city does a 
large trade in grain, Hour, tobacco, and marble. 

Bedford City (poj). 2,897), formerly called Liberty, is situated in Bed- 
ford Co., on the Norfolk A: Western 11. E. It manufactures tobacco 
and CIG.A.RS. 

Williamsburg (pop. 1,480), in James City Co., between the York and 
James rivers, is the oldest city in Virginia, and until 1779 was the capi- 
tal of the state. It is noted for its William and Mary College, next to 
the oldest college in the United States, and for its Insane Asylum, 
the oldest in America. 



QUESTIONS ON CITIES. 

Richmond — By whom was Richmond founded ? In what year ? 
When did it become the capital ? Where is it situated ? What makes 
Richmond an important manufacturing city ? What are its chief man- 
ufactures ? Name others. What makes Richmond an important place 
for commerce ? Describe the capitol building. Name other public 



IS 



(JEOGRAPIIY OF \ IRt^lxVIA. 



buildings. What can you say of the free schools of Ilichmond ? Name 
tJie most beautiful cemetery V 

Norfolk-What is next to the largest city in the state V Describe its 
situation. What kind of a city is Norfolk ? How i« it connected with 
inland places V With places along the coast? With foreign countries'^ 
V\ hat IS its chief industry ? Name its exports. What large trade does 
it carry on V Name some of its public buildings. 

Petersburg— Where is it? Names its chief manufactures. What 
tilings are exported ? What can you say of the tobacco traded 

Lynchburg -How is Lynchburg situated? How does the city get 
its water-power, and what does it manufacture? 

Roanoke— Locate the city, and give its important manufactures. 

Alexandria— Where is it ? Name its manufactures. What impor- 
tant trade has it? What of its schools ? 

Portsmouth — Describe its situation. What is a ferry ? Name three 
places of interest in Portsmouth. What are exports ? 

Danville — Where is Danville ? For Avhat is it noted ? 
Manchester — Describe its situation. What does it manufacture ? 
Staunton— How is it situated? Name its manufactures. 
Charlottesville — Where is it ? For what is it noted ? 
Winchester — Where is "Winchester ? What can you say of it ? 

Fredericksburg — Locate Fredericksburg. Name its manufactures. 
What trade has it ? 

Bedford City— What was the old name for Bedford City ? Where is 
it situated ? What does it manufacture ? 

Williamsburg— Where is Williamsburg ? Wiiat can you say of it ? 
For Avhat two things is it noted ? 



1^1 



GEOGRAPHY UF VIRGINIA. 



lu 



NAMES. 


AREA IN 
ACRES. 

252,945 


POPULA- NVAIF^ 


AREA IN 
ACRES. 

173.'433 


1 I'OPTJI.A- 
TION. 


Ac '-co-mac 


27,277 KingWill'-iam 


9,605 


Ar-be-niavle 


459,238 


32,379 iLan'-cas-ter 


80,486 


7,191 


A]-ex-au'dria 


20,288 


18,597 ILee 


299,294 


18,216 


Al-lc-glia'-ii}' 


431,787 


19,283 :jLou'-doun 


323,745 


33,274 


A niel'-ia 


232,788 


9,068 'Lou-is'-a 


386,445 


16,997 


Aiii'-hcrst 


300,013 


17,551 ! Lun'-en-burg 


367,535 


11,373 


Ap-po-inat'-lox 


203,679 


9,589 ''Mad'-i-son 


234,745 


10,225 


Aii-giis'-ta 


(505,015 


37,005 iMat'-thews 


53,515 


7,584 


V)iu-k'-iiig-liaiu 


351,785 


14,383 iiMeck'-len-bnrg 


414,263 


25,359 


Ijot'-c-tuiirt 


394,092 


14,759 1 Mid'-dle-sex 


80,839 


7,428 


Bath 


500.157 


4,587 !iMout-gom'-er-y 


239,033 


17,742 


Bed '-ford 


493,990 


31,313 jiNan'-se-mond 


259,394 


16,(5!)2 


Bland 


231,683 


4,888 :Nel'-son 


288,137 


15,356 


Brvms'-Avick 


345,976 


17,345 iNew Kent' 


129,609 


5,511 


Buch-au'-aii 


639,262 


5,867 jNor'-folk 


229,647 


77,038 


Car' -roll 


350,090 


15,497 !!North-amp'-ton 


113,255 


10,313 


Ches'-ter-rRkli 


293,074 


30,311 


iNor-thum'-ber-land 


118,197 


7,885 


C!raig 


338,781 


3,835 


Not'-to-way 


234,96(5 


11,582 


Cul'-pcp-e'r 


237,635 


13,233 


Or'-ange 


213,007 


12,814 


Car'-o-line 


335,354 


16,681 


iPage 


174,572 


13,092 


Charles City 


113,405 


5,066 liPat'-riek 


349,776 


14,147 


Char' -lotto 


397,927 


15,077 I'Pitt-svl-van'-ia 


628,134 


59,!)41 


Camp'-bell 


325,599 


41,087 !Pow'-ha-tan 


162,816 


, 6,791 


Clarke 


109,173 


8,071 : Prince Ed '-ward 


218,273 


17,694 


Cum'-ber-laiul 


189,886 


9,484 i Prince George 


171,016 


7,872 


Dick' -en-son 


313,597 


5,077 ij Prince Will'-iaui 


220.685 


9,805 


Din-wid'-die 


326,075 


36,195 Princess Anne 


139,070 


9,510 


E-liz'-a-beth City 


29,897 


16,1()S 


Pu-las'ki j 


195,763 ' 


12,790 


Es'-sex 


160,667 


10,047 


llap-pa-liaii'-nock \ 


175,601 


8,(578 


Fair'-fax 


259,362 


16,655 


Rich'-mond 


117,252 


7,146 


Fan-qiiier' 


413,697 


22,590 


Ro-a-noke' 


195,581 


30,101 


Flii-vau'-na 


180,009 


9,508 


Rock '-bridge 


401,569 


23,0(52 


1^'loyd 


238,348 


14,405 


liock'-ing-hani 


606,775 


31,319 


Fraiik'-liii 


453,200 


24,985 


Riis'-sell 


370,153 


16,126 


Fred'-cr-ie.k 


278,169 


17,880 


Scott 


335,427 


21,(!94 


Green'-ville 


186,738 


8.230 


Smyth 


310,926 


13,3()n 


Gray'-soR 


261 ,686 


14,394 


Shen-aii-do-ali' 


354,598 


19,671 


(iooch'-land 


178,604 


9,958 


South-anip'-toii 


369,618 


20.0 7S 


(Jreene 


107,016 


5,(i22 


Staf'-ford 


163, 90S 


7:.W2 


Glouce.s'-ter 


135,345 


11,653 


Spolt-syl-van'ia 


258,879 


14,233 


Giles 


240,347 


9,000 


Sur'-ry 


138,131 


M,25C) 


Hal'-i-fax 


516,961 


34,324 ; 


Sus'-sex 


298,0(52 


11,100 


Han'-o-ver 


293,569 


17,402 ; 


Ta/.e'-well 


355,847 


l9,Sil9 


Heu-ri'-co 


161,816 


103,394 


War'-ren 


139,391 


8,2S0 


llen'-ry 


368,799 


1S,20,S 


vVar'-Avick 


42,766 


(•|,(5.'")(l 


High '-land 


264,911 


5.352 


Wash'-ing-toii 


368,157 


29,(120 


Isle of Wight 


191,4,51 


11,313 


West-more'-land 


141,9S3 i 


x,:'>W 


James City 


9,277 ; 


5,r)43 


Wise 


454,872 


'.(,345 


King George 


1 1 1 ,()76 


6,641 


Wvk 


315,464 


18,019 


''•ig and Queen 


194,713 


9,669 


Y()rk ) 


70,983 i 


7,596 



ERRATA. 

Area 
Augusta Co.— 627,015 acres. 
Rockingham Co.— 690,560 acres. 
Wythe Co.— 315,464 acres. 





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